This fall our local university is expecting about one hundred new international students to begin their studies in our community.
These young people come from a variety of countries and they will include those from nations whose form of government is different, their religion and also culture is different from ours. They will be beginning their studies in a new environment and they will also be trying to adjust to this new environment where they are alone and all is different.
Some will find housing at the university but the majority will be renting apartments near bus routes. These apartments have stoves and refrigerators, but that is it.
For many years now the International Hospitality Program has welcomed these young folks and tried to help them settle here and make the adjustment to our culture.
This group is comprised of families from nearby cities and from various occupations and religions, but their goal is to offer friendship and assistance to these newcomers.
Members of IHP offer assistance to students as they seek to have minimal furnishings for their apartments and also kitchen utensils, dishes, lamps, towels and bedding. These items are donated, collected from donors and given to the students. Most students upon completing their studies pass on all items that are usable to future students.
Most students do not use beds but blankets, comforters and pillows on the floor. But they do need chairs and a table. Also, they can use some type of table or desk that can be used for studying and also serve as place for a computer.
We are all aware of the needs one has to prepare and serve food and these items are also collected. It is interesting to see that a student will take one plate, one bowl, one cup, and limited eating and serving utensils. They know what it means to ‘share’.
If you have any items that you think might be of use to incoming international students, could you please notify me. Every little bit helps and it also gives these new arrivals the impression that we are a community that welcomes them and is willing to help.
Doris Gvillo 656-0548 gvillo(at)empowering.com
PASTOR”S NOTE: Doris has been involved with this program for many years and has helped hundreds of foreign students. Isn’t it time for us to help Doris in this ministry?